Petites Jorasses

Petites Jorasses is a summit at 3,658 meters (12,001 feet) located on the France-Italy border in the Alps. The peak displays three prominent walls on the Italian side and two on the French side, creating distinct climbing lines.

The peak became known during early Alpine climbing development in the 1800s when mountaineers tested new techniques on its slopes. It evolved into a recognized objective where climbers could develop and refine their high-altitude skills.

Mountaineers from Chamonix and Courmayeur continue to climb and document routes, keeping the traditions of Alpine exploration alive through shared experiences. This peak marks a meeting point where French and Italian climbing communities interact and exchange knowledge about the mountain.

Climbers typically start from Chamonix and travel across the Mer de Glace glacier, reaching the Refuge de Leschaux at 2,450 meters (8,038 feet) as a staging point. The ascent requires solid mountaineering experience and comfort with both rock and ice climbing.

This peak acts as the dividing line between two distinct glacier systems, with the Glacier de Leschaux on the French side and the Glacier de Freboudze on the Italian side. From the summit, climbers can see how these two massive ice fields separate the landscape across the border.

Location: Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Location: Courmayeur

Elevation above the sea: 3,658 m

Part of: France–Italy border, drainage divide between the Adriatic and Mediterranean seas

GPS coordinates: 45.88171,7.00261

Latest update: December 14, 2025 20:28